How GrainCorp Women are ‘Marching Forward’ this International Women’s Day 

This year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, March Forward, is a call to action for continued advocacy, allyship and meaningful change for women globally.  

At GrainCorp, women across different parts of the business are leading the way, driving change, and encouraging others to do the same. 

Three of these women – Supply Chain Manager Kellie Weise, Nutrition and Energy Program Manager Claire Dunkley, and Operations Assistant Jess Lorimer – share their experiences, aspirations and reflections on what it takes to push gender equality ‘forward’ in the industry.  

Kellie Weise: Breaking barriers in operations 

Kellie Weise started her career at GrainCorp as a casual worker in 1998 at Barellan, NSW, before moving into a permanent position as a Technical Officer in 2004.  

Over the past two decades, she has progressed to her role today of Supply Chain Manager, based at the Port of Brisbane. 

Through her years in the industry, Kellie has witnessed first-hand the evolution of women’s roles within operations.  

“When I first started, it was common for me to be the only woman on site. Now, I see women stepping into roles as site managers, grain handlers, and in other areas like quality. It’s a huge change” Kellie says. 

Growing up on a farm in Ariah Park, in southern NSW, Kellie always knew she was destined for a career in the agriculture industry.  

“Early in my career, I was often referred to as ‘the girl’ on site – a perception I was determined to challenge. 

“While times have changed now, it only motivated me to challenge that mindset and prove to people what I was capable of.” 

Now in a senior leadership role, Kellie is passionate about creating opportunities for others – regardless of gender.  

“I always try and find opportunities for both female and male employees to seek out different roles, and I call on others to do the same.”

“When people see others succeeding in roles where they’re underrepresented, it fuels ambition and possibility.” 

Kellie Weise

Claire Dunkley: Advancing women’s leadership and advocacy 

Claire Dunkley joined GrainCorp as Transformation Manager in 2021, bringing 12 years of experience in the agriculture industry.   

Ambitious and passionate about both the industry and people she works with, she quickly rose through the ranks, transitioning into GrainCorp’s Nutrition and Energy (GNE) team, where she now leads transformation efforts and key strategic projects.  

“I think we are moving in the right direction, and we are definitely seeing more female participation in what may often be considered as ‘non-traditional’ female roles,” Claire explains.  

“We have great foundations at GrainCorp and some great advocates when it comes to women’s participation – but it’s always good to ask yourself: are you one of these advocates or allies? And if not, how can you step up and be one?” 

Claire emphasises the importance of building a workplace where allies – male or female – actively champion women’s participation and leadership.  

“I was originally seconded into the Nutrition and Energy team for a project, and thanks to the support and allyship of my colleagues, that role became a permanent leadership position.” 

She adds: “It should be the norm to have champions across the business who advocate for women, recognise their achievements, and create a strong community of support.” 

For Claire, ‘Marching Forward’ means taking small steps that lead to big milestones, continuing advocacy, and fostering conscious leadership. 

Claire finds inspiration in trailblazing women like Gail Kelly, who broke down barriers in a male-dominated industry.  

“She challenged the status-quo, and I believe we need to celebrate different leadership styles – including those that embrace feminine traits. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to leadership.” 

Claire dunkley

Jess Lorimer: Championing gender equality at GrainCorp  

Jess Lorimer began her journey at GrainCorp in 2015 as an Operations Assistant based at the Port of Geelong, Victoria.  

As an Operations Assistant, Jess is integral to many administration functions for the broader Victorian country operations team; however, her real passion lies in training, which she oversees the end-to-end process in the Operations team.   

Over the years, Jess has seen GrainCorp Geelong come “leaps and bounds” in the quest for gender equality, driven by a range of different focuses, cultural shifts and initiatives. 

“There are more women currently applying for, and being hired as, Bulk Grain Handlers than ever before,” Jess says. 

“Positive word-of-mouth plays a big role. Our terminals are known for being inclusive, supportive and free from gender bias, which has encouraged more women to go for these roles.” 

For Jess, representation is key. 

“When younger women see other women in leadership roles and historically male-dominated ones, it inspires them to believe in their own potential.” 

jess lorimer

“GrainCorp’s commitment to flexible work arrangements has also made a huge difference,” she adds. 

“It helps women – like myself – maintain work-life balance, stay in the workforce, reduce career gaps, and allow us to continually develop our skills,” says Jess. 

Kellie, Claire, and Jess all agree:  Advocacy and allyship are essential to ‘March Forward’ towards GrainCorp’s goal of greater equality and inclusion. 

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